Challenging the myth: can single people foster?
When Vicky became a foster carer in November 2023, she didn’t question whether being single would hold her back—and she’s living proof that single people can foster.
As a single parent to her daughter, M (13), Vicky is showing that what truly matters isn’t your relationship status, but your ability to offer a safe, loving home.
“I still had so much love to give,” she says. “And who better to give it to than children who need it most?”
Fostering in Bradford: a journey shaped by community
Vicky’s fostering journey began right here in Bradford, through a chance friendship with another foster carer. After spending time helping care for a baby, she realised fostering was exactly what she wanted to do.
Today, she provides short-term care for babies while important decisions are made about their future—whether returning home or moving to adoption.
But one thing Vicky is clear about is this: you don’t foster alone.
“There’s a huge community behind you,” she says. “People who genuinely want to help you succeed.”
Support for foster carers in Bradford
One of the biggest surprises for Vicky has been the level of support for foster carers in Bradford.
She regularly joins BIFCA’s Monday morning walks, where foster carers and kinship carers come together to share experiences, offer advice and support one another, while enjoying some fresh air and a gentle stroll.
“It’s a lifeline. You can talk to people who truly understand.”
Vicky also attends events run by Foster for Bradford’s enrichment team and stays connected with other carers she met during her training.
Alongside this network, her family—who were once unsure—are now fully supportive, even acting as back-up carers and forming close bonds with the children she cares for.
Fostering as a single parent with a child
At the heart of Vicky’s story is her daughter, M.
From the very beginning, M has been “all-in” and loves being part of a fostering family.
They talk openly about the children they care for and the importance of providing love and stability, even for a short time.
“M understands how lucky we are,” Vicky says. “She really values being able to share that with others.”
Together, they are creating a home where children feel safe, cared for and valued.
Making a difference through fostering
For Vicky, fostering isn’t about replacing a child’s family—it’s about giving them the love they need during a critical time in their lives.
“My job is to fill their cup so that where ever they go next, they know they were truly loved.”
Her story is a powerful reminder that there is no ‘perfect’ family structure when it comes to fostering—and that fostering as a single parent in the UK is not only possible, but incredibly rewarding.
Become a foster carer in Bradford
Vicky’s advice is simple:
“Just do it. And get involved in everything you can – because the support is there waiting for you.”
If you’ve ever wondered, “can I foster as a single person?”—the answer is yes.
You could make a life-changing difference to a child right here in Bradford.
👉 Find out more about how to become a foster carer in Bradford with Foster for Bradford today
Would you like to learn more about fostering in Bradford?
We believe fostering can change lives, whether a child is with you on a short-term or long-term basis.